If you like your Jazz straight-ahead
and with just the right touch of Latin, then the music of Elliot
Caine will suit you just fine. Elliot and his band (Sextet) have
managed to come out with a new very Hip and Cool mix of tunes
in this new effort. Having thoroughly enjoyed the swing and originality
of Elliot's last and debut CD Orientation, which was released
in 1998. This new disc solidifies my opinion that Elliot and
his group are a force to be reckoned with.
Elliot was born in Indianapolis, Indiana and gathered much
exposure to music as possible. Having played with several Jazz
and R&B groups as well as the Indiana University Jazz Ensemble,
He honed his skills and love for Jazz and music in general. Later,
having moved to Los Angeles, Elliot has put together a rather
impressive list of groups he has either recorded or performed
with. With names such as Teddy Edwards, Ernie Andrews, O.C. Smith,
Wycliff Jean, The Beastie Boys, The Machito Orchestra, Rudy Calzado,
Bobby Matos, Johnny Martinez, Tierra and the notable Latin-Ska
band, Jump with Joey to name a few. Elliot has also had the pleasure
of having a few appearances in featured films like the Addams
Family, Sinatra and Gypsy.
As you can see, this young man is talented in many ways. Now,
when you hear the sounds that emanate from his trumpet and flugelhorn,
you will agree with me that Elliot is one outstanding musician.
What makes Jazz swing is the originality and improvisation
that a group or a musician can provide on interpretations of
standards or original material. Elliot does just that on this
new disc. Each tune was arranged and composed by Elliot and each
is an exhibition of different ideas. Elliot's sound is what sets
him apart from many. He plays with authority and in that hard
bop vein very reminiscent of the recordings that were released
on the Blue Note Label in the 1960's.
The set starts of with a driving montuno entitled "Millenium
Montuno", which features the driving piano of Justin Reinhardt
and a truly tasty tenor saxophone solo by Michael Rose. Also
featured on this great tune is a solo from baritone saxophonist
Peter Aplanalp. Elliot and trumpet will make your fingers snap
and head bop and make you say.."Yeah!" This one is
what I like to call "moving and grooving" Latin Jazz.
Next is the classy straight-ahead number "Bop-a-licious"
Jazz at its finest. "Bossa For Bert" is a tender Bossa
Nova which features some very nice interplay between Elliot and
special guest Justo Almario (Tenor Sax).
"Indiana Avenue" is a very soulful bluesy tune that
highlights the superb playing of Greg Kurstin on organ and gentle
touch of Anthony Wilson on Guitar. "Past Imperfect",
a gorgeous ballad, is a tune where Elliot's muted trumpet leads
the way to a peaceful state of mind. Another favorite of mine
is the up-beat "Mambo Blues" for Tito. Dedicated to
the great Latin music legend Tito Puente, this tune does more
than swing, it cooks. A very nice number to dance or to play
table congas to. Speaking of congas, Ramon Banda, a true master
timbalero from Poncho Sanchez's Latin Jazz familia lays down
his own thing here on Congas in a percussion duel with drummer
Willie McNeil. Le Supercool, the title track, really cooks and
demonstrates the hard bop sound that Elliot possesses.
In "3 for Lei", Elliot evokes the feeling and sound
of Lee Morgan who happens to be one of Elliot's musical heroes.
The kind of tune to enjoy with your shoes off and a glass of
your favorite wine with the lights dimmed, of course. The closing
offers "Now and Here" gets the blood going again with
a nice mix of hard bop and Afro-Cuban Jazz. This tune has a touch
of nitty gritty to it and I like it.
Well, as you probably already have concluded I like this disc!
As I listened and as you will soon find out for yourself, this
session has all the makings of a great one. What a nice balance
of sophistication and creativity. That is The Elliot Caine Sextet.
Pure 100% Swing and a whole lot of Cool. I invite you to treat
your ears to some delightful and original sounds. To Check out
more on Elliot Caine please visit him at his Web site at www.elliotcaine.com
By Erik Chico Manqueros
Host & Producer of The Latin
Style of Jazz and Contributing writer
Latin Style Magazine, LatinJazzClub.com
